Depending on the age and condition of your water heater, it may be time to replace it. The home water heater is a non-issue until you get hit with that first icy shower in the morning, or see a giant puddle in the basement when you come home from work. To help you diagnose issues with your water heater, we have compiled a list of signs that indicate your water heater is failing.
2 Signs You Need To Replace Your Water Heater
Table of Contents
Collection of Minerals in Hot Water Tank
If your water tank is leaking, you will likely be required to perform a water heater replacement. Over time, the minerals in hard water react with steel, corroding the interior of the hot water tank. The two types of minerals that are responsible for the deterioration of your water heater are calcium and magnesium. If you do not flush your water heater once or twice a year, the minerals will start to collect and cause a leak at the base of your water tank. Once a crack or hole forms at the bottom of the tank, you will be required to replace the water heater to prevent water damage in your household.
Age of the Water Heater
If you’re having problems with a storage-tank water heater that is 10 to 12 years old, this is a signal it needs to be replaced. New water heaters are up to 20% more efficient and can save up to $700 in energy costs over the projected life of the new unit. However, if your water heater is only a few years old, a technician will recommend performing a repair instead of a replacement.
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6 Types of Water Heater Problems That Can Be Repaired
Conventional water heaters are simple. Cold water enters the tank and is heated by an electric heating element, a gas burner or an oil-fired burner. A thermostat regulates the temperature, in the tank, usually between 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. As the water in the tank becomes warm, the pressure will increase in the water heater. When you turn on a sink in your house, pressure sends the warm water to the faucet from the hot water heater.
As your water heater reaches the middle of its life cycle, you can encounter minor problems such as a malfunctioning thermostat, dirty gas burners, broken heating elements, a deactivated pilot light, tripped circuit breakers, and pressure relief valve leaks. Repairing or replacing any of these parts is relatively inexpensive and a quality plumber can do the job for $150 to $500.
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Advantages Of Purchasing a New Water Heater
On the bright side, today’s modern water heaters are far more energy-efficient than older models. A large number of people choose to replace a hot water heater to enhance heat retention. The latest water heaters are equipped with foam insulation between the tank and its outer shell that is engineered to prevent heat loss. In addition, new water heaters are assembled with an interior glass liner that is designed to prevent corrosion. Although there are a large number of benefits to investing in a water heater with a foam insulation and glass liner, these new features enhance the total size of the water heater.
Prior to replacing an old hot water heater, consult with a licensed plumber to confirm there is a sufficient amount of room in your house for the system. You’ll pay up to $1,500 to purchase and install a standard new gas-fired or electric residential water heater. A high-efficiency model that meets Energy Star standards saves up to 20% in energy costs and may cost slightly more.
Maintain Your Water Heater
Your water heater will perform better and last longer if you flush the tank once a year to remove excess sediment. Removing excess calcium and magnesium will help boost the efficiency of your water heater and decrease the total cost of your utility bills. In addition, it’s important to check the anode rod every three years. The anode rod is an aluminum or magnesium probe inside the tank that is designed to collect corrosive elements. If the exterior of the anode rod is deteriorating, you can easily replace it for $30 or less at a local hardware store. To receive assistance with a broken water heater, give our team of certified plumbers in Wilmington, DE a call by phone at (302) 367-7915. We offer trustworthy plumbing and HVAC services for malfunctioning water heaters, inefficient furnaces, broken water lines, noisy air conditioners. Our team have the tools, skills, and equipment required to resolve the issues with your water heater or furnace.
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